Adult Faith Studies
Intellectually Challenging and Theologically Progressive
At FUMC, we believe in life-long learning. We understand the importance of a safe space where folks may ask and wrestle with questions that Christianity, spirituality, and religion raise in one’s mind and heart. You will find a variety of opportunities to challenge you as you explore your faith, how it impacts everyday life, and how to practice it in the wider world.
For more information on any of the following classes and groups, please contact our Director of Membership and Communication, Anna Rodriguez
Sunday Morning
We have a dedicated Christian Education Hour between services for children, youth, and adults from 9:35 to 10:35 am. Our Nursery is open so parents and caregivers may participate in their classes. All are welcome to any class!
Book Study
West Parlor
Join Pastor Kent for a book study. The current book is We Make the Road by Walking by Brian D. McLaren.
Boomers +/-
Room 112
Explore topics around the theme “Progressive Christian Living.” This discussion-led group often views videos and dives into current events and how they intertwine with the lens of Progressive Theology. We are a lively and welcoming group that encourages folks of all ages to participate!
Centering Prayer
Mead Chapel
Not a class, but an experience. This time of soul-work begins with 10 minutes of fellowship, followed by 20 minutes of silence, closing with The Lord’s Prayer. The meditative process is facilitated by retired clergy, Rev. Dr. Don Bredthauer.
Connections
Room 204
This group of mostly Gen-Xers meets to share support as friends and parents, and wrestles with challenges presented by the world, and what solutions may be found in Progressive Theology. We typically begin with “share a life-giving moment from your week” – which leads into great conversation and support.
Explorers
Adult Education Library (Room 100)
These seekers inquire in depth by reading and discussing a book. They change over their book every six-to-eight weeks, but new folks are welcome any time!
FaithLinks
Room 111
In this inter-generational class, each week a new, stand-alone topic invites Christians to consider the United Methodist Church’s stance on important contemporary and developing issues; to consider them in the thoughtful light of their personal experience; and then encourages action on the basis of their beliefs.
Spiritual Study
East Parlor
A new class dedicated to a book-study style discussion. We are currently working with Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr. All are welcome to join!
Young(ish) Adult Faith Studies
Room 108
A group of 20-somethings to 40-somethings to tackle life and faith, together. We are discussion-led group, and come together to ask the tough questions that many of us share as we wrestle and grow within our Christian Identity and deepen our knowledge of progressive theology. All Young(ish) Adults are welcome to join!
Opportunities During the Week
FUMC offers a variety of groups and ministries during the week both inside and outside the church building. The list and meetings of the groups changes often, so we encourage you to contact our Director of Membership and Communication, Anna Rodriguez, for the latest updates, as well as how you may connect with any of our group and committee leaders.
Spiritual Practices
Taizé Worship
First Saturday Monthly, 5:00 – 6:00 pm in Mead Chapel
Taizé worship services involve sung and chanted prayers, meditation, a period of silence, and liturgical readings, and icons.
Tai Chi for Balance
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3:30 – 4:30 pm in Mead Chapel
This is a low-impact exercise class for that puts minimal stress on muscles and joints, while strengthening ankle muscles and teaches moves designed to help prevent falling. All over the age of 55 are welcome in this free class led by a licensed instructor.
Meditation
Wednesdays, 12:00 pm in Mead Chapel
This small, intimate group gathers during the lunch-hour for peaceful and quiet meditation. Bring a pillow to kneel, a mat to sit, or sit in a provided chair. However you are most comfortable, we have a space for you.
Morning & Evening Yoga
Morning: Mondays, 9:30 am; Evening: Thursdays, 6:15 pm in Mead Chapel
Facilitated by trained instructors, these classes are considered introductory in nature – no experience required! Come as you are and connect with your body and spirit through gentle yoga exercises.
Zumba
Wednesdays, 6:30 – 7:30 pm in The Commons
All skill levels welcome! Come join Pastor Cynthia, our Sacred Activism Pastor and licensed Zumba instructor, as we move and groove! This is a free, introductory class… just bring a water bottle and friend.
Outdoor Labyrinth, Garden & Gazebo
Open 24/7, weather permitting, South Front Lawn
We invite all folks to journey through our outdoor labyrinth, garden, and gazebo at any time so long as weather permits outdoor activities.
Fellowship Groups
First United Methodist Church believes a community of faith should include faith-based learning… AND community fellowship! As with most things in life, our small groups and fellowship groups often change. Please contact our Director of Membership and Communication, Anna Rodriguez, to find out more information on any of our groups!
Bike Cycling Outing
Will meet when weather gets warmer
Bike Riding and checking out local trails. No drop ride, open to all skill levels, ages.
Brainstormers for Kindness
Has met a few times, working on establishing more of a routine!
A group focused on impacting the lives of those in our community who are in need of small acts of kindness.
Coffee-Ventures
Has met a few times, working on establishing more of a routine!
A coffee group that visits different local coffee shops in the Omaha area.
Craft Beer Group
Has met a few times in the evenings. Open to new members (21 and over)
Meet one evening per month at a local brewery (locations, day and time to be determined by group) to sample local brews and share conversations while getting to know each other.
Craft Group
Meets every other month at the Church
A group of women who love working on craft projects together. Maybe general or more specific (paper crafting or vinyl projects). Group rotates volunteers to lead craft projects monthly.
Evening UMW Circle
Meeting times for 2020 have not yet been decided
A group for women who work days to participate in United Methodist Women (UMW).
Everyday Theology
Meets every other month in the Parlor, typically on Wednesday evenings
An open conversation group about progressive theology, or any other questions or topics those in attendance bring related to faith, life, creed, journey, etc.
Friends & Dogs Group
Meets weather permitting at local dog parks
All dog-owners and their dogs are welcome as we get together to try out the local dog parks around Omaha!
Game Night
Meets monthly, location varies each month
Evenings of game-playing meeting monthly. Rotate at people’s homes or at the church depending on the date/time specified.
Girls Night Craft Group
Will begin meeting in 2020!
Join a group of FUMC women who love to get creative and try new things. You will enjoy getting to know other women at the church and make something. The events will be held once a quarter, at one of the many venues in Omaha that offer “creative project” get-togethers. Each individual will be responsible for their own project fees.
Guitar Group
Meets monthly, often in homes
Bring your guitar and some songs and we’ll go around the circle and sing and play!
Local History
Meets on weekends periodically at local historical sites
Tour different local historical sites and meet for coffee or lunch after to discuss the outing and our next adventure! All History-buffs welcome!!
Men’s Theology on Tap
Meets bi-monthly at local watering holes
An evening discussion, meeting at a local watering hole for men to gather, discuss theology, and social issues.
Movie Group
Second Wednesday monthly, 6:00 pm at W. Dale Clark Library
This group determines a movie to see each month and participants see the movie on their own time. The participants gather at the Downtown Library for discussion and the choosing of the next movie followed by dinner out at a nearby location. All are welcome to one or both events!
Post-Church Dine Out
Will meet after second service on Sundays
Meet-up in the Gathering Place to first decide where we want to go, taking turns deciding location (open to places close to church or other locations). Cost will be involved to pay for your meal. Would eat together for Fellowship Meals held at the church.
Read, Snack, Talk (Book Group)
Has met a few times in the evenings. 2020 dates to be determined!
An evening group to read, snack, and talk! If you enjoy reading, book discussions, and snacks, this group is for you. Members will take turns helping coordinate the book decision and location of the meetings. Email Laura or write your preferred time to meet after your name!
Small Children Playgroup
Will begin meeting in 2020
A playgroup for parents/guardians of infants and toddlers to meet during the week.
Writers Group
Has met a few times, working on establishing more of a routine!
A space dedicated to the act of writing. Bring your own projects whatever they may be–journaling, letters to government representatives, something you want to publish, letters to friends and family, etc. It can be anything! If it’s something you want feedback on, we will make that happen. Bring a laptop and/or notebook. If you’re interested but have no idea what to write, there will be prompts available to get the creative juices flowing.
Writing Your Autobiography
Meets in the evenings every other month in room 111. Has not decided 2020 dates.
Meet to discuss: 1.( Who I am at age ____); 2. (Family of origin) a. the facts; b. the circumstances c. stories to remember; d. early education and first jobs; e. secondary & college education; f. places I’ve lived and visited; g. opportunities not chosen; h. notable achievements; 3 (Marriage & Partnering) a. about my mate; b. Kids or not; 4. (career) ; 5. (philosophy/faith) 6. Reprise.